Robert Crying Redbear and his wife Elvena Taylor run the non-profit artist guild. The guild provides a place for Native artists to come together and be seen, have an outlet for their art and to tell their stories to people who come to see the art. All of the artists involved in the festival are part of the guild.

Redbear said the inspiration for the festival came from looking around locally at all the great artists who can't get exposure or who can't afford the big markets, like the market in Santa Fe.

"We used to talk to a lot of Native people who can't get anywhere and they have such beautiful artwork," Redbear said. "My wife and I talked about this and said we need to do this, we need to truly bring out the Native people to a place where they have exposure and a place where their children will eventually come to."

Redbear and his wife contacted local artists and explained what they hoped to do. The city of Winslow and the Chamber quickly got on board and are helping to plan the event.

"It's good for the Winslow area, it's good for the Native people and it's good for the public to come out and see and hear stories from the Native people," Redbear said.

The festival will feature Native food vendors and the artists will sell pottery, kachina dolls, jewelry and weaving. Some demonstrations may also be ongoing at different booths. All of the art is for sale.

On Saturday, Hopis will perform Native dances. Redbear said this is an excellent chance for people to experience the dances in person.

"They can come out and see the dances rather than having to find them, they will be invited to see it locally in Winslow," Redbear said.

The festival starts each day at 9 a.m. and ends around 6 p.m. or when the sun goes down.

All events will take place at the Eagle Pavilion at 523 W. Second St., Winslow, Ariz. 86047.

More information about the event is available from Redbear at (928) 613-8001.